The same test sequence, including LBNP exposure, was repeated a few months later on Earth
on the same subject. As expected, the influence of the frame on rod positioning was statistically
significant in all test conditions. During the in-flight experimental step, a substantial lack of
significant changes compared to the preflight condition was observed. Moreover, substantially
no effects due to LBNP were observed. A mild rod displacement from the body axis was
detected under microgravity compared to the preflight recording. Such a finding was in part
reduced during LBNP. The same findings were observed during the postflight repeat of the
experiment. Results showed an absence in this subject of significant effects on the RFT due to
microgravity. In conclusion, no effects from subject’s VM on the RFT and minor changes in the
SVV could be detected.
PUBLICATION(S)
Lucertini M, De Angelis C, Martelli M, Zolesi V, Tomao E. Subjective Visual Vertical in
Erect/Supine Subjects and Under Microgravity: Effects of Lower Body Negative Pressure. Eur
Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2011;268(7):1067-1075. doi: 10.1007/s00405-011-1493-2.
van Loon JWA, Medina FJ, Stenuit H, Istasse E, Heppener M, Marco R. The National-ESA Soyuz
missions Andromède, Marco Polo, Odissea, Cervantes, DELTA and Eneide. Microgravity Science
and Technolog. 2007;19(5-6):9-32. doi: 10.1007/BF02919448.
This investigation is complete and all results are published.